DULOXETINE is a prescription medication that’s used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. It’s part of the SSRI class of medications, which stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Duloxetine oral capsules are a type of extended-release version of duloxetine. They have a very long shelf life (up to one year) and are taken just once per day with food.
The extended release properties help to reduce the side effects often associated with duloxetine. These capsules can be taken with or without water, but it’s important not to chew them and they must be swallowed whole. The dosage is generally prescribed at 60 mg per day in two separate doses unless the doctor advises otherwise.
How does Duloxetine Work?
Duloxetine works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin from the synaptic cleft, which is the space between neurons. It does this by blocking the serotonin transporter protein. Since serotonin is associated with mood, cognition, and sleep, its reuptake into the neurons is important for mood regulation.
The increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft leads to a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms. Duloxetine has a long half-life of about 26 hours, which is why it is administered as an extended-release tablet rather than as a single dose.
While duloxetine has been found to be very effective in treating a number of conditions, it does come with risks. As with most medications, side effects are possible with duloxetine use. Most people tolerate it well, but side effects are something to be aware of, especially if you’re taking it regularly. The most common duloxetine side effects are: Dry mouth: This is very common with duloxetine. Dry mouth, especially coupled with dry eyes, can be an indication of too high a dose.
Some people, especially those with a predisposition to Sjögren’s syndrome or other autoimmune disorders, are more susceptible to this side effect. Nausea and vomiting. Nausea is another side effect that often goes hand in hand with dry mouth. While nausea may be an indication that you’re taking too high a dose, it can also be a sign that you have a pre-existing condition that needs to be addressed. If nausea is ongoing, it’s important not to self-medicate with more duloxetine. Instead, it’s important to talk to your doctor about underlying causes.
Is Duloxetine a Good Choice for Depression?
As we’ve seen, duloxetine is most commonly used as part of a depression treatment regimen. Like other SSRI medications, duloxetine is very effective in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and may be the best choice for many. Duloxetine is a uniquely effective choice for depression and anxiety, in part because of its broad-spectrum effects on serotonin. Duloxetine has been found to have particularly positive effects on cognitive and physical functioning, which can be very helpful in daily life. In fact, studies have shown that duloxetine is more effective than a placebo in treating MDD.
Is Duloxetine Right for You?
Since duloxetine is so effective in treating depression, it’s worth asking if it’s right for you. The answer to this question will depend on a number of factors, including your current health, the severity of your symptoms, and your preferences and lifestyle. Duloxetine is an excellent choice for many people with depression, but it’s important to understand what duloxetine does and how it may affect you.
Duloxetine is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders. It is also used to help people quit smoking, and it may be used to treat diabetic neuropathy. Duloxetine is a prescription medication.
Final Words: Duloxetine Oral Capsules: The Basic Facts
Duloxetine is a prescription medication that’s used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. It’s part of the SSRI class of medications, which stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Duloxetine oral capsules are a type of extended-release version of duloxetine. They have a very long shelf life (up to one year) and are taken just once per day with food.
The extended release properties help to reduce the side effects often associated with duloxetine. These capsules can be taken with or without water, but it’s important not to chew them and they must be swallowed whole. The dosage is generally prescribed at 60 mg per day in two separate doses unless the doctor advises otherwise.